What is Neoplatonism in Philosophy

Neoplatonism is a philosophical current that emerged in the XNUMXrd century AD and had a great influence on Western philosophy. This current is based on the ideas of the Greek philosopher Plato, but also incorporates elements of the thought of other philosophers, such as Plotinus and Porphyry. Neoplatonism seeks to understand reality through contemplation of the world of ideas and the search for union with the One, a divine entity that represents the source of all things. In this glossary, we will explore in more depth the main concepts and ideas of Neoplatonism.

Origins of Neoplatonism

Neoplatonism had its origins in the city of Alexandria, Egypt, where Plotinus founded a philosophical school known as the Neoplatonic School. Plotinus was a disciple of Ammonius Sacas, who in turn was a disciple of Philostratus, one of the main representatives of Neo-Pythagorean thought. The Neoplatonic School attracted many scholars and philosophers of the time, and its ideas spread throughout the Roman Empire.

Main Concepts of Neoplatonism

One of the central concepts of Neoplatonism is the theory of ideas, which states that the sensible world is just an imperfect copy of the world of ideas. According to this theory, ideas are eternal and immutable entities, which exist independently of the human mind. The goal of the Neoplatonic philosopher is to achieve the contemplation of these ideas, in order to understand the true nature of reality.

Another important concept of Neoplatonism is the theory of the soul. According to this theory, the human soul is immortal and has a divine nature. The soul is trapped in the physical body, but can be freed through the contemplation of ideas and the search for union with the One. This union with the One is the final objective of the Neoplatonic philosopher, as it represents the maximum achievement of human existence.

The Hierarchy of Being

In Neoplatonism, there is a hierarchy of being that represents the order and organization of the universe. This hierarchy is made up of different levels of reality, ranging from the One to the sensitive world. At the top of this hierarchy is the One, which represents the source of all things and is the cause of everything that exists. Below the One are ideas, which are the perfect and eternal forms of things. After ideas, we have the soul, which is divided into different levels, each corresponding to a level of reality. Finally, we have the sensitive world, which is the physical reality that we perceive through the senses.

Contemplation and the Ascension of the Soul

In Neoplatonism, the contemplation of ideas is seen as a form of ascension of the soul towards the One. Through contemplation, the soul frees itself from the limitations of the sensitive world and approaches divine reality. Contemplation is a gradual process, which involves the purification of the soul and the development of virtues. The Neoplatonic philosopher seeks to achieve union with the One through this process of contemplation and ascension.

The Influence of Neoplatonism

Neoplatonism had a significant influence on Western philosophy, especially during the Middle Ages. His ideas were incorporated into Christian thought, mainly through the writings of Saint Augustine. Neoplatonism also influenced Islamic and Jewish philosophy, and its ideas continue to be studied and discussed to this day.

Criticisms of Neoplatonism

Despite its influence and historical importance, Neoplatonism has also received criticism over the centuries. Some philosophers argue that the emphasis on contemplation and the search for union with the One can lead to a detachment from concrete reality and the practical issues of life. Furthermore, the theory of ideas has also been criticized, mainly in relation to its abstract and speculative nature.

Legacy of Neoplatonism

Despite its criticisms, Neoplatonism left a lasting legacy in Western philosophy. His ideas about the nature of reality, the human soul, and the quest for union with the divine continue to be discussed and explored by philosophers and scholars. Neoplatonism also influenced other areas of knowledge, such as theology, literature and art, leaving an indelible mark on Western culture.

Conclusion

In short, Neoplatonism is a philosophical current that seeks to understand reality through the contemplation of ideas and the search for union with the One. His ideas about the nature of reality, the human soul, and the hierarchy of being have had a significant influence on Western philosophy. Despite criticism, Neoplatonism left a lasting legacy and continues to be studied and discussed to this day.